Society of the Patricians
Legion of Mary
Fairfax Comitium
February 2013
Society of the Patricians

The term “Patricians” is a term derived from ancient
Rome. Patricians were the upper of three in grades of
the ancient society; that is, Patricians, Plebes, Slaves

Ancient Patricians were full of love for their country
and of responsibility for its’ welfare

The Legion of Mary started the Society of the
Patricians in 1955
Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians
February 2013
Society of the Patricians

“It is said that those outside the church will not
listen. But the real truth is that Catholics will not
speak.” – Cardinal Suenens

Why the silence:
◦ Many Catholics are excessively conscious of the defects of their
religious knowledge
◦ Even where knowledge is substantial, the answers are separate, like
the answers in the catechism. The mind has not joined them
properly together
◦ In many instances, there is such ignorance that faith is insufficient
knowledge to rest upon. This has but to meet an irreligious
environment to suffer disintegration
Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians
February 2013
Society of the Patricians

Patricians meets monthly and is managed by the
Legion under the guidance of their spiritual director

It is not the intent to have professional speakers,
teachers or priests be the primary speakers but the
Catholic laity

The atmosphere is a friendly one; encouraging and
appreciative

A family spirit is established in which all, even the
“smallest speaker” are encouraged to participate
Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians
February 2013
Society of the Patricians

Structure of the Meeting:
◦ A priest or religious in attendance will begin with the Patricians
prayer
◦ A talk, strictly limited to 15 minutes begins
◦ The talk is followed by group discussion
◦ Approximately one hour after the start of the meeting,
discussion is suspended and a financial statement is given
◦ Light refreshments are always provided; this break will last 15
minutes
Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians
February 2013
Society of the Patricians

Structure of the Meeting (continued):
◦ The meeting resumes with a talk by the Spiritual Director for
15 minutes
◦ Discussion continues until 5 minutes before the end of the
meeting
◦ Subject and speaker for the next meeting are selected
◦ Meeting ends with prayer
Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians
February 2013
Society of the Patricians
2013 Goal
By October 31, 2013, establish a Patricians
group in every parish with the Legion.
Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians
February 2013
Society of the Patricians

Next Steps:
◦ Each praesidium without a Patricians group request
approval from their pastor.
 Provide the pastor with information as to why it is beneficial
to have a Patricians group in the parish (Comitium will
prepare a fact sheet).
 For parishes with multiple praesidia, the praesidia should work
together to establish a single group.
 For parishes that already have a Patricians group, you can help
other parishes get started or establish a second group.
◦ Request support from the Comitium officers if
needed.
◦ Report on the status at each Comitium meeting.
 We have until October 31, but we should start early.
Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians
February 2013